Indian Polity: March 2025 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Decline in MPLADS Funds

Why in News?

The latest data from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) indicates a significant decline in the total funds released by the central government under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) compared to the 16th Lok Sabha (2014-2019).

Key Takeaways

• Decline in Funds: The total MPLADS funds for the 17th Lok Sabha amounted to Rs 4,510 crore, reflecting a 65.2% decline from the 16th Lok Sabha, primarily due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Utilization of Funds: The 14th Lok Sabha recorded a 102% utilization rate for MPLADS funds, while the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas recorded 99% and 98% utilization, respectively.
• Regional Disparities: MPs from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal received the highest MPLADS funds, whereas those from Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab received the lowest allocations.
• Sector-wise Fund Distribution: During the 17th Lok Sabha period, Rs 1,679 crore were allocated for infrastructure, mainly covering railways, roads, and bridges, followed by allocations for public facilities and education.

What is MPLADS?

• About: The Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) is a Central Sector Scheme introduced in 1993 that allows MPs to recommend developmental work in their constituencies, focusing on creating durable community assets based on local needs.
• Implementation: A state-level nodal department manages MPLADS, while district authorities are responsible for sanctioning projects, allocating funds, and overseeing implementation.
• Funding Allocation: Each MP has been allocated Rs 5 crore annually since 2011-12, with funds disbursed by MoSPI to district authorities in two installments of Rs 2.5 crore each.
• Nature of Funds: MPLADS funds are non-lapsable and can be carried forward if not utilized in the given year. MPs are required to allocate a minimum of 15% and 7.5% of their funds to create assets for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), respectively.

Special Provisions

• MPs can allocate up to Rs 25 lakh annually for projects outside their constituencies or states that promote national unity.
• In the event of severe natural calamities, MPs may allocate up to Rs 1 crore for projects anywhere in India.

Projects Eligible Under MPLADS

• MPLADS funds can be converged with the MGNREGS for durable asset creation and integrated with the Khelo India program for sports infrastructure development.
• Infrastructure support is permitted on lands owned by registered societies or trusts engaged in social welfare for at least three years, but is prohibited for societies where the MP or their family members serve as office-bearers.

In summary, the recent data highlights the challenges faced by the MPLADS scheme, particularly in funding allocations and utilization. Understanding these dynamics is essential for evaluating the scheme's effectiveness in delivering developmental projects in constituencies.

Pashu Aushadhi Kendras under LHDCP

Why in News?

The government has announced the launch of the "Pashu Aushadhi" initiative, which aims to establish stores across the country to provide affordable generic veterinary medicines. This initiative is specifically designed to support individuals involved in animal husbandry and dairying.

Key Takeaways

• The Pashu Aushadhi initiative is modeled after the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK).
• It aims to reduce healthcare costs for livestock farmers by providing quality generic medicines.
• The initiative is part of a larger Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP).
• It has received a budget allocation of ₹75 crore to ensure the availability of these medicines.

Additional Details

• Pashu Aushadhi Stores: These stores will be managed by cooperative societies and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK).
• Ethnoveterinary Medicines: In addition to generic medicines, these stores will also offer ethnoveterinary medicines that utilize traditional knowledge and practices for animal treatment.
• The initiative aims to enhance access to essential veterinary care through PM-Kisan Samriddhi Kendras and cooperative societies.
• The LHDCP focuses on preventive measures including vaccination, capacity building in veterinary services, and strengthening infrastructure.

The Pashu Aushadhi initiative represents a significant step towards improving the health and welfare of livestock in India, ultimately benefiting farmers and the agricultural economy.

Namami Gange Programme

Why in News?

The Namami Gange Programme (NGP) has made remarkable strides in its goal to rejuvenate the sacred River Ganga. Initially launched in 2014 with a budget of Rs 20,000 crore until 2021, it has now been extended until March 2026 with an increased budget of Rs 22,500 crore, bringing the total to Rs 42,500 crore.

Key Takeaways

• Flagship Programme: Aims at rejuvenating the Ganga River and its tributaries.
• Five-Tier Structure: Organized framework for effective implementation.
• 8 Pillars of NGP: Focused areas for intervention and improvement.

Additional Details

• Key Interventions:
  • Pollution Abatement (Nirmal Ganga): Establishing sewage treatment plants (STPs) to manage industrial and domestic waste discharge.
  • Improving Ecology and Flow (Aviral Ganga): Efforts to restore natural flow and biodiversity while implementing water conservation measures.
  • Strengthening People-River Connect (Jan Ganga): Engaging community participation and raising awareness among local stakeholders.
  • Facilitating Research and Policy (Gyan Ganga): Promoting scientific research and formulating evidence-based policies.
• Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM): Involves a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) where the winning bidder manages STP development, operation, and maintenance; with a cost structure of 40% paid post-construction and 60% across the project's lifespan.
• Key Achievements:
  • Sewage treatment capacity has exceeded pre-2014 levels by over 30 times.
  • Improvement in Water Quality: Significant reductions in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) across states from 2015 to 2022, indicating cleaner water.
• Impact on Biodiversity: The population of the Gangetic river dolphin rose from 3,330 in 2018 to 3,936 in 2024, with sightings expanding into new areas.
• Global Recognition: In December 2022, the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration recognized NGP as one of the Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives, and it received the title of Climate Smart Utility from the International Water Association.

The Namami Gange Programme represents a comprehensive approach to restoring the health of the River Ganga, highlighting the importance of community engagement, scientific research, and significant financial investment to address critical environmental challenges.

Boosting R&D for India's Growth

Why in News?

India has emerged as the second-largest producer of graduates in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), following China. However, India is ranked 39th on the Global Innovation Index 2024, trailing significantly behind China, which stands at 11th place. This disparity highlights the critical issue of inadequate Research and Development (R&D) funding in India.

Key Takeaways

• India allocated only 0.65% of its GDP to R&D in 2022.
• Economic growth and industrial development require increased R&D investment.
• Deep-tech startups in various sectors need technological advancements to thrive.
• International examples illustrate the potential benefits of increased R&D spending.

Additional Details

• R&D Funding Status: India's R&D expenditure is significantly lower than that of advanced economies, for instance, the US (3.46%), Japan (3.30%), Israel (5.56%), and South Korea (4.93%).
• Challenges in R&D Ecosystem: Major challenges include low investment levels, dependency on government funding, weak links between academia and industry, and a lack of diversification in research priorities.
• Global R&D Scenario: Countries like South Korea and China have drastically increased their R&D spending, leading to substantial economic growth and innovation.
• Reform Recommendations: Suggested measures include increasing R&D spending, utilizing the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) for private and philanthropic investments, and adopting a university-led research model to enhance commercial viability.

In conclusion, India's economic future is heavily reliant on robust R&D investments, improved collaboration between industry and academia, and comprehensive policy reforms. By increasing funding and fostering innovation, India can overcome its middle-income trap and emerge as a global leader in science and technology, contributing to economic growth and technological independence.

One Candidate Multiple Constituencies

Why in News?

The discussion around electoral reforms in India has intensified with the introduction of the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) Bills. This debate has also brought to light the issue of One Candidate, Multiple Constituencies (OCMC), where an individual contests elections in more than one constituency. Although this practice is legally allowed, it raises significant concerns regarding governance efficiency, public trust, and the financial burden associated with frequent elections.

Key Takeaways

• Legal Framework: The Representation of Peoples Act (RPA), 1951, initially had no restrictions on candidates contesting multiple seats. However, post-1996, candidates are limited to contesting from a maximum of two constituencies.
• Bye-Elections: If a candidate wins multiple seats, they are required to resign from all but one, leading to by-elections for the vacated positions.
• Cost Implications: Frequent by-elections result in increased financial strain on taxpayers, with significant expenditures recorded during elections.
• Challenges: OCMC tends to favor ruling parties, exacerbates financial burdens, and can lead to a breach of voter trust.

Additional Details

• Representation of Peoples Act (RPA), 1951: Initially allowed unlimited contesting of seats, but now limits candidates to two. If elected to multiple seats, candidates must resign all but one within a specified time frame.
• Constitutional Provisions: Article 101 addresses dual membership and mandates that individuals cannot belong to both Houses of Parliament or hold membership of both a Parliament and a State Legislature.
• Key Challenges:
  • Favors the Ruling Party: Ruling parties often gain an unfair advantage in by-elections due to their control over state resources.
  • Financial Strain: The cost of conducting bye-elections adds to the financial burden on the electorate, with estimates indicating significant spending by political parties.
  • Parachute Candidacy: Candidates with little local connection contesting elections can lead to dissatisfaction among grassroots leaders.
  • Administrative Disruptions: Frequent elections necessitate the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), hindering government operations.
  • Breach of Voter Trust: The focus on political interests over accountability can undermine democratic processes.
  • Potential Violation of Fundamental Rights: OCMC practices may infringe upon voters' rights to choose their representatives.

To address the challenges posed by OCMC, several reforms could be implemented:

• Banning OCMC: Recommendations from the Election Commission of India suggest prohibiting multiple-seat contests to promote fairer elections.
• Recover Bye-Election Costs: Candidates who vacate a seat should cover the bye-election expenses to deter the practice of seat-hopping.
• Delay Bye-Elections: Extending the cooling-off period for bye-elections could help level the playing field for all candidates.
• Mandatory Resignation: Candidates should resign from their current positions before contesting in another election to ensure dedication to their elected role.

The electoral landscape in India requires substantial financial and administrative resources. The frequent by-elections resulting from OCMC are not only costly but also waste valuable time that could be better spent on development initiatives. While the concept of One Person, One Vote is a foundational democratic principle, enforcing One Candidate, One Constituency is crucial for ensuring fairness in the electoral process.

Mains Question

Q: The practice of One Candidate, Multiple Constituencies has significant implications. Discuss the challenges it poses and suggest viable electoral reforms to address them.

Reasonable Classification Test

Why in News?

The Anwar Ali Sarkar Case (1952) is a pivotal Supreme Court judgment that set a precedent by establishing the reasonable classification test as a benchmark for interpreting Article 14 of the Indian Constitution.

Key Takeaways

• The case clarified the application of Article 14, which ensures equality before the law.
• It introduced the reasonable classification doctrine, allowing differential treatment under specific conditions.

Additional Details

• Reasonable Classification: This legal principle allows the state to differentiate between groups or individuals based on rational and substantial distinctions, provided there is a justifiable basis for such differentiation. Example: Laws designed to protect vulnerable populations, such as women or economically disadvantaged groups.
• Equality Before Law (Negative Concept): This principle asserts that no individual should enjoy special privileges, ensuring that all individuals are subject to the same legal standards regardless of their status.
• Equal Protection of Laws (Positive Concept): This guarantees that individuals in similar circumstances receive equal treatment, allowing for reasonable distinctions based on valid criteria.
• Twin Test for Reasonable Classification:
  • Intelligible Differentia: Laws must distinguish based on clear and rational criteria.
  • Rational Nexus: There should be a logical connection between the classification and the law’s purpose.

This case serves as a foundational element in Indian constitutional law, ensuring that any deviation from equality under Article 14 is scrutinized through the reasonable classification test, thus preventing arbitrary governance.

Preventive Detention

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has recently annulled a preventive detention order issued by the Nagaland home department, highlighting the necessity for detaining authorities to exercise independent judgment in such matters.

Key Takeaways

• Preventive detention allows for detaining individuals without trial.
• The aim is to avert future offenses rather than punish past actions.
• Constitutional safeguards exist to protect individuals under preventive detention.

Additional Details

• Preventive Detention: It refers to the detention of a person without being tried or convicted by a court. The goal is to prevent the individual from committing future offenses, ensuring public safety and social order.
• Constitutional Provisions: Article 22 of the Indian Constitution provides protections for individuals under detention. It includes provisions that:
  • Guarantee the right to know the reasons for detention.
  • Allow for representation against the detention.
  • Limit detention to a maximum of three months without an Advisory Board’s recommendation for extension.
• Legislative Authority: Only Parliament can enact laws for preventive detention related to defense, foreign affairs, or national security. Both Parliament and State Legislatures can legislate for public order or essential services.
• Applicable Laws:Key laws governing preventive detention in India include:
  • National Security Act (NSA) of 1980
  • Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967
  • State-specific laws like the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and the Public Safety Acts (PSA).

In conclusion, preventive detention serves as a controversial yet critical tool for the authorities, aimed at safeguarding public order while needing robust constitutional safeguards to prevent misuse. 

NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy

Why in News?

A research paper titled “Quantum Computing: National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness” by NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH) emphasizes the significance of quantum computing for India's security and economy. The report advocates for a multi-pronged strategy to tackle national security risks stemming from advancements in quantum technology.

Key Takeaways

• Global investments in quantum technology exceed 40 billion USD, with over 30 governments participating.
• China is leading with a 15 billion USD investment, followed by Europe.
• India's National Quantum Mission (NQM) has a budget of Rs 6,003 crore aimed at developing indigenous capabilities.
• Quantum technology has dual-use applications in military and intelligence, enhancing encryption and surveillance systems.

Challenges Highlighted by the NITI Aayog Report

• Lower Funding Compared to Global Peers: India’s NQM funding of Rs 6,003 crore (~USD 750 million) is significantly lower than that of other countries, limiting competitiveness.
• Weak Domestic Supply Chain: Dependence on foreign suppliers for specialized components, such as cryogenic systems and high-purity materials, hampers progress.
• Limited Startup and Industry Participation: Unlike the US and Europe, where major tech companies drive innovation, India's quantum landscape is primarily academic.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Quantum computers pose risks to existing encryption standards, threatening sensitive data.
• Intelligence & Espionage: Enhanced SIGINT capabilities could expose confidential communications, risking national security.

What is Quantum Technology?

Quantum technology utilizes principles of quantum mechanics to create new capabilities and applications, particularly in computing and communication.

Recommendations Suggested by NITI Aayog

• Enhancing National Security Policy: Form a Task Force to monitor global advancements and threats, and develop an Early Warning System for potential quantum threats.
• Boosting R&D: Increase funding for research and development to support quantum startups and hardware innovation.
• Strengthening Domestic Supply Chain: Build a local manufacturing ecosystem for critical quantum components to reduce import dependence.
• Expanding Global Partnerships: Establish agreements with leading quantum nations to gain access to advanced research and technology.

In conclusion, as quantum technology is poised to reshape global security and economic landscapes, it is crucial for India to address the outlined challenges and implement the recommended measures to safeguard its national interests.

Strengthening Tribunals in India

Why in News?

The Supreme Court (SC) is currently examining pivotal issues affecting tribunals and is reviewing the constitutional validity of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021. This review highlights the necessity of strengthening tribunals to ensure efficient adjudication and maintain public confidence.

Key Takeaways

• The Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021 aims to streamline tribunal operations.
• It dissolves certain appellate tribunals, transferring their functions to High Courts.
• The Act was enacted following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated previous provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Ordinance.

Additional Details

• Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021: This Act was introduced to enhance the operational efficiency of tribunals. It abolishes multiple appellate tribunals and shifts their functions to existing judicial bodies, primarily High Courts.
• Search-cum-Selection Committee: This committee is established to recommend appointments of tribunal chairpersons and members, ensuring a structured selection process.
• Tenure and Age Limits: Chairpersons and members have a tenure of 4 years, with specific age limits: 50 years minimum and 67 years maximum for members, while chairpersons can serve up to 70 years.

Tribunals are quasi-judicial entities that address various disputes such as those related to administration, taxation, and environment. Their introduction into the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, marked a significant evolution in the legal framework.

Functions of Tribunals

• Adjudicating disputes and determining rights between parties.
• Making administrative decisions and reviewing existing administrative rulings.

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 323-A: Pertains to Administrative Tribunals for public service matters.
• Article 323-B: Addresses various matters including taxation, labor disputes, and elections to the legislature.

Challenges Faced by Tribunals

• Staff Shortage: A lack of presiding officers and judicial members has led to increased case pendency, notably impacting the efficiency of tribunals like those under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).
• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many tribunals suffer from inadequate facilities, which hampers their effectiveness and accessibility for marginalized communities.
• Procedural Inefficiencies: Frequent adjournments and missed deadlines hinder the efficiency of tribunals, pushing litigants towards higher courts.
• Political and Administrative Indifference: Budget constraints and lack of commitment from the government affect the overall functioning of tribunals.

Way Forward

• Accelerated Appointments: Ensuring timely appointments of judicial and technical members is crucial for the effective functioning of tribunals.
• Investment in Technology: Enhancements such as electronic case management and digitization can significantly improve efficiency.
• Procedural and Administrative Reforms: Implementing strict limits on adjournments and penalties for delays can help reduce backlog.
• Autonomy and Accountability: Greater independence and robust oversight mechanisms are necessary for enhancing transparency and resource allocation.

The significance of tribunals in the Indian judicial system lies in their ability to expedite justice and reduce the burden on traditional courts. Addressing the challenges faced by these tribunals is imperative to improving the overall judicial process and ensuring that justice is accessible to all.

State of Madras vs V.G. Row Case

Why in News?

The Supreme Court's ruling in State of Madras vs V.G. Row, 1952, established a crucial test of reasonableness for laws that restrict fundamental rights. This landmark decision set a precedent for judicial review, ensuring that restrictions on civil liberties must be fair, just, and not excessive.

Key Takeaways

• The case challenged the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1950, which allowed the government to restrict associations viewed as harmful to public order.
• The Supreme Court ruled that excessive executive discretion in banning associations was arbitrary and violated Article 19(1)(c).
• This case laid the foundation for the reasonableness test, which evaluates the validity of restrictions on rights based on their objectives and proportionality.

Additional Details

• Background: The Madras government banned the People's Education Society in 1950, which led V.G. Row, a member of the society, to challenge the law, claiming it violated his right to form associations under Article 19(1)(c).
• Supreme Court Ruling: In its 1952 judgment, the Court struck down the law, emphasizing that any restriction on rights must relate directly to its objective and evaluated based on factors like the nature of the right, purpose, extent of the restriction, and current socio-political conditions.
• Significance: The ruling contributed to the evolution of constitutional jurisprudence by establishing the reasonableness test, which has influenced modern legal frameworks, including laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and others, ensuring they do not arbitrarily infringe on civil liberties.

This case is pivotal in understanding how the judiciary balances national interest with the protection of democratic freedoms, reinforcing the principle of reasonable restrictions on rights.

Champakam Dorairajan Case and Evolution of FRs and DPSPs

Why in News?

The Champakam Dorairajan Case, decided in 1951, marked the first significant conflict between the Fundamental Rights (FRs) and the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) in India.

Key Takeaways

• The case emerged from a 1948 order by the Madras government reserving educational seats based on caste and religion.
• The Supreme Court upheld the Madras High Court's ruling, stating that FRs take precedence over DPSPs.
• It led to the Constitutional Amendment Act, 1951, which allowed for special provisions for socially and educationally backward classes.

Additional Details

• Background of the Case: In 1948, the Madras government issued a Communal General Order (GO) reserving educational seats based on caste and religion, citing Article 46. This order was challenged by a woman from Madras, asserting her right to equality under Article 14.
• Madras High Court Verdict, 1950: The High Court struck down the Communal GO as unconstitutional for using caste and religion as the basis for classification, prompting the government to appeal to the Supreme Court.
• Supreme Court Verdict, 1951: A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court upheld the High Court's ruling, declaring the GO unconstitutional. It emphasized that the FRs, particularly the Right to Equality and the prohibition of discrimination under Article 15(1), prevail over DPSPs.
• Impact of the SC Ruling: The ruling effectively annulled caste-based reservations in education, which led to the 1951 Constitutional Amendment Act that restored these reservations under Article 15(4).
• Constitutional Amendment Act, 1951: This amendment introduced Article 15(4), enabling the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes (SEBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

The Champakam Dorairajan case significantly influenced the relationship between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, establishing the supremacy of FRs while paving the way for future amendments that would balance social justice with individual rights. Subsequent rulings, including those in the Golaknath, Kesavananda Bharati, and Minerva Mills cases, further shaped this balance, ensuring that while FRs are prioritized, the Parliament retains the power to amend these rights to implement DPSPs effectively.

Issue of Pradhan Pati in Panchayats

Why in News?

A panel constituted by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in 2023 has submitted its report, titled Transforming Women’s Representation and Roles in Panchayati Raj Systems and Institutions: Eliminating Efforts for Proxy Participation. The report recommends “exemplary penalties” to address the practice of ‘Pradhan Pati’, which involves male relatives acting as proxies for elected women representatives.

Key Takeaways

• Implementation of strict penalties for proven cases of proxy leadership within Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
• Recommendations for structural and policy reforms, including gender-exclusive quotas in local governance.
• Technological solutions proposed to empower women leaders and ensure transparency.

Additional Details

• Strict Penalties for Proxy Leadership: The report emphasizes enforcement of penalties for situations where male relatives act as stand-ins for elected women leaders, undermining their roles.
• Structural and Policy Reforms: Suggested reforms include gender-specific quotas in committees, annual awards to combat proxy leadership, and the establishment of women’s ombudspersons to address complaints.
• Technological Interventions: The use of Virtual Reality (VR) for training, AI for real-time legal support, and platforms like WhatsApp to connect Women Elected Representatives (WERs) with officials for efficient issue resolution.
• Pradhan Pati Issue: The term refers to the practice where husbands of elected women leaders exercise authority on their behalf, reducing these leaders to mere figureheads and reinforcing patriarchal norms.
• Challenges: The committee notes that patriarchal norms, bureaucratic neglect, and societal pressures hinder women's active participation in governance, particularly in northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

The report highlights the need for comprehensive reforms to address the challenges faced by women in PRIs, ensuring their empowerment and the realization of the objectives set out in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.

Electors Photo Identity Card Number

Why in News?

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP that multiple electors have been assigned identical EPIC numbers, raising concerns about electoral integrity ahead of the state elections.

About Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC)

• An Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) is issued to all registered voters to prevent impersonation during elections.
• It serves as an identity document but does not grant the right to vote unless the elector’s name is present in the electoral roll.
• The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 provides for the issuance of EPICs.
• EPICs were introduced in 1993 and are issued by state governments.

Contents of EPIC:

• Elector’s name, age, and residence details
• Photograph of the voter
• Facsimile signature of the Registration Officer
• Any other particulars specified by the Election Commission (EC)
• EPIC Number Format: It is a unique alphanumeric code consisting of:
• Three alphabetical codes
• A seven-digit numerical code
• Each EPIC number includes a Functional Unique Serial Number (FUSN) for the respective Assembly constituency.
• Since 2017, EPICs have been generated exclusively online via the ERONET portal of the Election Commission.
• The first-time issuance of an EPIC assigns a unique number to the elector. If an elector replaces their EPIC, the number remains the same as the original.

Duplicate EPIC Numbers Issue:

• The EC has acknowledged duplicate EPIC numbers but clarified that no voter can cast votes outside their designated constituency.
• EC is working on rectifying duplicate EPIC numbers by assigning new unique numbers through the ERONET 2.0 platform.